Regardless of what type of dive your’e going on, all dives usually last around fifty minutes or until someone in the group is low on air.
You usually all ascend to the surface together but it’s a good idea to have a surface marker buoy and know how to use it in case you have to surface alone.
It’s rarely a long wait before the dhoni comes to pick you up. Once everyone has been collected, it’s time to head back to the liveaboard where a meal awaits.
Before you go to eat, I strongly recommend you use the showers at the back of the dhoni or your cabin to rinse out your ears to avoid aches and pains as the week progresses.
After that, go eat! Breakfast is eggs, pancakes, toast, spam and fruit.
Lunch and dinner are Maldivian and Indian inspired so expect plenty of fish, chicken, rice, steamed vegetables and curry-like-dishes.
If you have any special dietary requirements, you’ll have already communicated these with your liveaboard before the start of the trip so they can accommodate you.
After each meal, you usually have one and a half to two hours before the next dive briefing. This is a great time to charge camera equipment, rest and soak in the views.
There’s plenty of spaces you can chill around the liveaboard -most liveaboards feature a sundeck as well as a partially shaded lounge with hammocks, beanbags and sundecks.
There will also be an indoor saloon where you can relax inside and of course you’re free to head back to your cabin where a freshly made bed awaits after the first dive.
Exact duration time between dives varies depending on where the next dive site is.
Sometimes there’s a long enough wait for extra activities. On cheaper liveaboards this can mean snorkeling or kayaking. This can be done for free.
On more expensive liveaboards you may be able to participate in watersports like flyboarding or jet skiing – or get a massage if there’s an onboard spa! This costs extra.
Now let’s check out the movie below to see an extended cut of one of the stars of the Maldives: